Yet Hong Kong conceded only 48 runs from the last 10 overs, also taking five wickets to limit the world number two ODI side – who have rested several players for this tournament, including captain Virat Kohli – to 285-7.

A weakened India bowling attack struggled for long periods before debutant left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed and leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal took three wickets each to stifle Hong Kong’s chase.

Defeat means qualifiers Hong Kong are eliminated from the competition, while India face Pakistan at the same venue on Wednesday to determine the winner of Group A – although the arch rivals are now guaranteed to meet again in the Super Four stage.